Build the specialist interpersonal skills to secure a career in youth work
Youth work is a dynamic field with a specific focus on inclusivity, diversity and improved outcomes for young people. The field needs adaptive professionals who are ready to work collaboratively with other sectors and can embrace cultural changes such as the rapid emergence of digital tools and technology use among youth.
UNE offers undergraduate and postgraduate course offerings which provide the knowledge and skills you need to work with young people in our fast-paced world where attitudes, challenges and policies are ever-changing. Because UNE has a long history of helping adults ready themselves for changes in the workplace, our youth work courses emphasise client care and professional practice to ensure you are future-fit to adapt to advancements in the field. You’ll learn from highly experienced practitioners and researchers.
Most of our students opt for online education, where they become part of a community of adults who pool their life and work experiences to form tangible networks for the future. Those who study on-campus enjoy accommodation, athletics facilities and support services. Whether online or on-campus, you can choose to study full-time or part-time over three trimesters.
By choosing to study with UNE, you’ll acquire the skills required to thrive as a dynamic youth worker in whichever area of the sector you choose to work. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Explore the study options related to Youth Work on offer at UNE.
Courses by study level
At the heart of community services is a desire to help people – to promote social justice and inclusion, and enable people to flourish. UNE's flexibly delivered Bachelor of Community Services will enable you to develop the skills to empower individuals, marginalised groups and communities in complex and rapidly changing community and health settings.
This course integrates real-world practice and contextual knowledge with an understanding of the theories and methods underpinning the effective practice of community services, as well as policy issues, and legal and ethical responsibilities that guide this practice.
- 2 or 2.5 or 3 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Criminology is the study of crime and our responses to crime. UNE's Bachelor of Criminology investigates factors that cause criminal behaviour and how crime can be prevented within wider society. The course offers a variety of key topics and issues including policing and punishment, rural crime, victimology and how crimes may be prevented in practice and solved through criminal profiling and forensic science. You will get to hone your skills in critical thinking, problem solving and analysis to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Do you want to understand more about what drives human behaviour? Gain in-depth knowledge of the scientific study of human behaviour, as well as research and analytical experience, with UNE's innovative Bachelor of Psychological Science. Delivered flexibly online or on campus, our accredited three-year undergraduate degree is designed to give you a balanced education with a psychology focus. Along with completing a mandatory minor in Psychological Health and Wellbeing, you will have the freedom to choose electives from any unit offered by UNE. With opportunities to focus your study with a Counselling major or Criminology minor, our course allows you to future proof your career by developing transferable skills that are highly valued in the workplace and opens doors to further advanced study in psychology.
- 1.5 or 3 years full-time
- Up to 5 or up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Become an agent of positive change in diverse communities with UNE's Bachelor of Social Work. With an emphasis on social work in rural and complex community environments, our flexibly delivered course will equip you with the practical skills to work with and empower individuals, groups and communities who experience marginalisation, isolation or discrimination. In our complex world, skilled social workers are valued and in high demand. You'll be choosing a rewarding profession, with the qualifications to work in a range of professional environments.
This course is accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and graduates are eligible to become a member of the AASW.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
Special and inclusive education is rapidly evolving, and with it the demand for specialists in the field is larger than ever. UNE’s Bachelor of Special and Inclusive Education (Primary) equips you with the knowledge and practical skills to become a sought-after teacher who makes a valued and rewarding contribution to children’s abilities and development. Create an open and supportive learning environment to engage students with diverse needs and make a real difference in primary schools by helping children develop, grow, and build their confidence.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Explore the social contexts of welfare, community service and health work with UNE’s Diploma of Community Welfare and Wellbeing. Build on your existing industry experience, vocational qualifications, or interest in welfare and community service work and healthcare with this course — you’ll be future proofing your career and ready to adapt to changes in the workplace.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to consider the following courses as alternatives:
Supporting those in need is one of the most rewarding career pathways you can pursue. Along with a wide range of job options, working in health and social care can bring a sense of fulfilment, especially if you want to make a difference to the lives and wellbeing of vulnerable people and communities.
Our new Undergraduate Certificate in Health and Social Care is specifically designed to develop your knowledge and skills as a contemporary, adaptable and self-aware health and social care practitioner.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our suite of undergraduate courses for an alternative course that meets your goals.
The UNE Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Development is a program of study for people from a broad range of backgrounds who want to begin developing skills for future careers or further study. Designed in response to rapid workplace and industry changes brought about by COVID19, it can help you develop knowledge and skills in a range of disciplinary areas. This program is available fully online and includes a core unit to help you articulate your career goals. For students in Tamworth there are options for face-to-face learning and the chance to undertake work experience with a local employer in some specialisations.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore the following courses as alternatives:
Youth and community work is a rapidly growing sector in Australia and working in this field provides the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Our new Undergraduate Certificate in Youth and Community Work is designed to help you become a highly skilled professional who supports individuals, families and communities to prosper.
The course helps you to gain foundational skills in client-centred care, interprofessional practice in community health work and working with children and young people at risk.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Online
In the human and community services sector, research plays a critical role in identifying gaps in service delivery, evaluating program effectiveness, and developing evidence-based policies and interventions. Having a strong understanding of research is now essential for success, with employers increasingly seeking employees who are not only proficient in their field, but also possess research skills that can be applied to solve complex problems.
UNE's Bachelor of Human and Community Services with Honours offers a dynamic blend of theoretical and practical learning that prepares you to fill these needs, with the opportunity to work with industry partners and receive guidance from experienced supervisors. This comprehensive course will be your gateway to a career path focused on senior human and community services sector roles.
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Neuroscience is one of the fastest-growing areas of human physiology today, and it plays an increasingly vital role in guiding educational practices. With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Neuroscience and Education, you will deepen your understanding of education's role in contemporary society, how the brain facilitates learning and thinking, and the importance of neuroscience in modern education.
- 1 trimester full-time
- Up to 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.
Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
One Health recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, and the need for collaboration among multiple sectors to promote optimal health outcomes for all. By recognising the interconnectedness of these three fields, One Health seeks to improve the prevention and control of diseases that can spread between animals and humans (zoonotic diseases), as well as environmental factors that can impact health.
UNE’s fully online Graduate Certificate in Public Health (One Health) prepares you to build a career in population health, health promotion, epidemiology and leadership roles in public and private health, with a focus on this emerging health practice.
Enhance your skills and knowledge and elevate your long-term career prospects by studying with UNE’s experts in health practice.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Whether you are new to professional counselling or want to safeguard your career with an industry-recognised qualification, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Counselling gives you real-world skills and knowledge, underpinned by a strong philosophical framework. Our course equips you to support and empower people, building relationships and fostering personal growth in a diverse range of contexts. With flexible delivery, our accredited course integrates theory with skills-based practical experience and supervision to allow you to practice in this dynamic, person-centred field.
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
There is a close connection between how the brain works and how we learn. As a result, neuroscience and education are becoming increasingly intertwined, and employers are looking for graduates with skills and knowledge in both areas.
UNE’s Graduate Diploma of Neuroscience and Education, designed by our leading experts and researchers, places you at the centre of human physiology's fastest-growing field and its increasingly crucial role in education.
Whether you're new to either or both fields, or have prior knowledge or experience, our flexible postgraduate course allows you to tailor your program to the topics and areas that interest you most.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
The One Health concept focuses on the holistic, connected approach to health, recognising the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. Today, we understand much more about infectious diseases than we did pre-2020. We know that developing a One Health approach to problem solving, using a trans-disciplinary methodology, we can identify the root causes of complex infectious diseases and develop strategies to prevent them.
With UNE’s Graduate Diploma in Public Health (One Health), gain a thorough knowledge of the One Health approach and the skills to elevate your career in this emerging and significant field of public health. Delivered fully online, you can choose a specialisation and focus your study to give you a distinct advantage in the field.
Secure your future in the burgeoning and fascinating realm of public health.
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
At the heart of a career in counselling is a desire to help others. Build on the skills acquired in your previous degree or professional experience with UNE's accredited, flexibly delivered Master of Counselling. Underpinned by a humanistic philosophy that focuses on the person rather than the symptoms, our course equips you to support people in need with practical skills and advanced knowledge. Future proof your career as a registered counsellor, able to engage in professional, reflexive counselling practice in an environment of genuineness, acceptance, caring, compassion and empathy.
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Upgrade your skills in educational practice with the post-graduate UNE Master of Education (Coursework). In addition to a flexible program pathway with a wide range of curriculum options, you can build your expertise with one of four specialisations. Deepen your knowledge in a range of educational disciplines and engage your students with contemporary practice and theory.
- 1 or 1.5 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The field of neuroscience is one of the fastest growing in human physiology, and there is increasing interest in applying neuroscience to learning processes within the educational field.
As a Master of Neuroscience and Education student at UNE, you will gain a specialised understanding of the specific neurobiological processes that underlie different kinds of behaviour within educational settings.
As you explore evidence-based research on the application of neuroscience to learning, you will be equipped with hugely valuable skills in this emerging field. Once you graduate, you may also apply for research-based higher degrees and other doctoral programs.
- 1.5 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
One Health is a rapidly emerging discipline in public health, representing a multidisciplinary approach that recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. Examining these connections can help us to identify the root causes of complex infectious diseases and develop strategies to prevent them. In today’s world, one health is an increasingly important focus in both medical and veterinary science.
UNE’s Master of Public Health (One Health) offers you the opportunity to be at the forefront of this emerging and significant field of health and research. Delivered fully online, you can choose a specialisation and focus your study to give you a distinct advantage in the field.
Combine the theoretical and the practical by completing a real-world action research project and secure your future in the burgeoning and fascinating realm of public health.
- 0.5 or 1 or 1.5 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Build on your existing knowledge and passion for social justice and human rights with practical experience and flexibly delivered case-based learning. Gain the skills necessary to address barriers, inequality and injustices faced by marginalised and disadvantaged groups in Australia's socially and culturally diverse society. With a focus on rural and regional communities, UNE's Master of Social Work (Qualifying) will provide you with the tools to thrive in this rewarding and rapidly-evolving profession.
This course is accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and graduates are eligible to become a member of the AASW.
2024 Health scholarships
Starting a UNE Health course in 2024? Get up to $12,000 towards your studies. For more information about the range of health scholarships and subsidies available, register your interest now.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Online
- On Campus
A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.
When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.
- 4 years full-time
- 8 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.
You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.
Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
- Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own 4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
- ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
- ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
- ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
- ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.
Why study with us?
![Smiling Bachelor of Agriculture student Greg Kemmett stands on wooden stairwell at UNE Armidale](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/63320803472/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=445005/e=never/k=805b79a7/Greg-Kemmett-1.jpg)
The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.
Greg KemmettFind the right major or specialisation for your studies in Youth Work
With demand for capable youth workers strong and rising, UNE’s study offerings will help you to stay at the forefront of rapid changes in the welfare sector. Strengthen your position as a socially conscious, caring professional. Explore your Youth Work study options now.
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Develop your ability to contribute to the health and wellbeing of the community with UNE's highly regarded social work and community teaching team. Become future-fit for the rapidly changing world of welfare that is forecast to focus on equity…
Develop your ability to contribute to the health and wellbeing of the community with UNE's highly regarded social work and community teaching team. Become future-fit for the rapidly changing world of welfare that is forecast to focus on equity and resilience.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Community Services | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Social Work | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Diploma in Community Welfare and Wellbeing | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Undergraduate Certificate in Health and Social Care | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Development | Specialisation | Undergraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE’s established reputation in counselling and develop your listening and communication skills. Study recent, evidence-based, techniques and therapeutic approaches and be prepared for the challenges you’ll face in your counselling career. Explore the integration of tech into the field.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Arts | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Psychological Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Social Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Master of Counselling | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Graduate Diploma in Counselling | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Public health specialists who can respond to rapidly changing environments are in high demand. Hone your skills in strategic planning, policy development, and information management with UNE, emphasising a comprehensive approach to leadership and…
Public health specialists who can respond to rapidly changing environments are in high demand. Hone your skills in strategic planning, policy development, and information management with UNE, emphasising a comprehensive approach to leadership and management in the healthcare sector.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Master of Public Health (One Health) | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Graduate Diploma in Public Health (One Health) | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Public Health (One Health) | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Ensure you are future-fit with practical teaching skills in anticipation of advancing education technology and an expanding emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Develop your technical and interpersonal skills to secure your future in teaching…
Ensure you are future-fit with practical teaching skills in anticipation of advancing education technology and an expanding emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Develop your technical and interpersonal skills to secure your future in teaching English as a second or other language.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Master of Education | Specialisation | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Education Studies | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
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Why study with us?
Australian Universities
Public NSW Universities
NSW Universities
Careers in Youth Work
By studying youth work with UNE, you will have the future-proof skillset to secure positions in a wide range of careers that involve young people. With the need for professionals with expertise in caring for and guiding young people set to rise, those with well-developed skillsets in this area of study can find work in a variety of settings.
- Youth worker
Provide support and guidance to young people facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, or substance abuse. - Youth outreach coordinator
Organise outreach programs and activities to engage young people in positive community involvement. - Social worker
Focus on youth and family services, assessing needs, providing intervention, and ensuring the welfare of vulnerable young individuals. - Counsellor
Specialise in youth counselling, helping young people navigate personal, emotional or behavioural issues. - Community development officer
Work in local government or non-profit organisations to develop and implement programs aimed at improving the wellbeing of young people. - Family support worker
Assist families and children in need, offering counselling, resources and referrals to relevant services. - Policy officer
Work on youth related matters at the policy level – in local, state or federal government. - Youth justice worker
Mentor and guide young people who are involved in the juvenile justice system.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Browse other disciplines within Social Sciences
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.